Cisco Catalyst Center
6.2#5 in microsegmentation softwareWebAPILinuxmacOS
VisitCisco Catalyst Center vs Open Virtual Network
Open Virtual Network
5.9#4 in data center fabric softwareFree planFree planLinuxSelf-hosted
VisitWhat both publish
| Fact | Cisco Catalyst Center | Open Virtual Network |
|---|---|---|
| Integrations | Cisco documents integrations with ISE, ThousandEyes, Webex, Microsoft Teams, ServiceNow, Infoblox, and BlueCat, plus generic APIs for other ITSM and IPAM systems. | The architecture page names OpenStack Neutron’s ml2/ovn plugin and the ovn-kubernetes project as cloud management system examples. |
| Purpose | Cisco Catalyst Center is a centralized network controller and management dashboard for enterprise network operations. | OVN is a system that supports logical network abstraction in virtual machine and container environments. |
| Release support | Cisco states that Catalyst Center 2.3.7.x follows a 24-month support timeline, with support for that release listed through June 17, 2027. | Standard term releases receive full bug-fix support for one year after initial release; LTS releases receive bug-fix support for two years and another year of critical and security fixes after a new LTS is released. |
| Security | Catalyst Center supports FIPS 140-2-compliant cryptography modules, and Cisco recommends deploying it behind a firewall on a private internal network. | OVN’s security process directs vulnerability reports to the ovs-security mailing list for coordinated handling. |
| Support | Cisco says Catalyst and Cisco DNA software subscriptions include embedded software support and downloads; opening a support case requires a Cisco Service Contract. | The installation guide directs users to GitHub issues or [email protected] to report problems. |
Cisco Catalyst Center plans
- Cisco DNA AdvantagePriced on request
- Cisco DNA EssentialsPriced on request
Open Virtual Network plans
- OVNFree
Pick Cisco Catalyst Center if…
It suits enterprise network teams that need centralized operations, automation, and assurance across managed devices. Teams should be prepared for substantial virtual-appliance requirements and subscription-based licensing.
Pick Open Virtual Network if…
OVN is intended for use by cloud management software in virtual machine and container environments. It suits teams building logical networks with routers, switches, access controls, and gateways.